Effects of Tao‐Hong‐Si‐Wu decoction on acute blood stasis in rats based on a LC‐Q/TOF‐MS metabolomics and network approach

A novel approach using metabolomics coupled with a metabolic network was used to investigate the effects of THSWD on the rat model of acute blood stasis syndrome. Acute blood stasis syndrome was induced by placing the rats in ice-cold water following two injections with epinephrine. The hemorheological indicators (WBV and PV), and the blood coagulation indicators (TT, PT, APTT, and FIB) were detected. The nonparametric univariate method and multivariate statistical analysis were performed for determining the potential biomarkers. A correlation map was structured between biochemical indicators and hub metabolites to explain the effects mechanism of THSWD. After the administration of THSWD, the levels of WBV, PV, TT, APTT, and FIB returned to levels observed in the control group. According to metabolomics coupled with metabolic network analysis, the intervention of THSWD in rats with acute blood stasis syndrome induced substantial and characteristic changes in their metabolic profiles. Fifteen metabolites were screened, which mainly involved ten pathways and five hub metabolites, namely, L-glutamate, L-phenylalanine, N-acylsphingosine, arachidonic acid and phosphatidate. The biochemical indicators and hub metabolites could be adjusted close to normal levels by THSWD. Therefore, combining metabolomics and metabolic network helped evaluate the effects of THSWD on acute blood stasis.